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Antonin Artaud - Biography

Biography a Artaud - Life and Work of the Shocking French Playwright and Theater Theorist

Antonin Artaud, real name Antoine Marie Joseph Artaud, was born on September 4, 1896 in Marseille, France. His childhood and youth were difficult and marked by diseases that he faced from the very beginning of his life. These physical and mental illnesses had a profound impact on his future creativity and outlook on the world.

Antonin Artaud began his career as an actor and playwright in theaters in Paris. He actively participated in theatrical productions and quickly became known as an actor with unusual talent and unpredictable performances. However, his work quickly developed in several directions.

Artaud became one of the most important theater theorists of the 20th century. His concept of the "theater of cruelty" (Théâtre de la Cruauté) involved the creation of theatrical works that would shock, provoke and force viewers to experience intense emotions. He believed that theater should be a means of "healing" for society and a tool for drawing attention to social and psychological problems.

Antonin Artaud's most famous work was his play Le Jet de sang, which was staged in 1927. It was a bold and experimental piece that differed from traditional theatrical concepts. Other notable works include "Le Théâtre et son double" and "Le Pèse-nerfs."

Antonin Artaud's life was full of physical and mental suffering. He suffered from schizophrenia and was admitted to psychiatric clinics numerous times. His struggle with illness and addiction to opiates became part of his biography, and it had a serious impact on his work.